Online Courses

Mondays, 11a-12:30p | 2/15-3/1 | 3-Week Lecture

Instructor: Cindy Tsotsorsos

OSU Psychology Doctoral Student

 

How do factors such as early childhood experiences, exercise and obesity effect our brains and cognitive function? We’ll look at the psychological disorders that relate to aging and ways to improve cognitive function, combat social isolation and maintain brain health. Cindy Tsotsoros holds a master’s in gerontology and is a Ph.D. candidate in OSU’s psychology program. She studies emotions and cognitions related to health.

Mondays, 1-2:30pm | 2/15 - 4/5 | 8-week Lecture
Instructor: Shanley Wells Rau

Writer

 

Let’s revisit the Laura Ingalls Wilder 1935 best seller while also exploring history to contextualize her family’s experiences described in the book. We’ll read Little House on the Prairie together, discuss our personal connections to the story and discover what the Laura scholars have to say.

 

Recommended text: “Little House on the Prairie,” by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1935). Participants are responsible for purchasing their own book.

Mondays, 3-4:30p | 2/15 - 3/22 | 6-Week Lecture

Instructor: Moses Vijayakumar

Professor Emeritus Microbiology and Molecular Genetics

 

Gain an understanding of the principles of epidemiology, the study of the “who, what, when and where” of infectious and noninfectious diseases of human populations. The recent emergence of COVID-19 has heightened the importance of epidemiology for the control of all great epidemic diseases.

Monday, 9-10:30a | 2/15 | Single Class

Instructor: Jae Oh

 

Let’s clear up many frequently-told myths about Medicare, the cornerstone to retirement planning in the U.S.  This information-only session will cover how Medicare actually works, and how a person plans and considers if and when to enroll in Medicare.  The session’s goal is to ensure that people focus on the most important aspects of Medicare, frequently not explained in the media or advertisements. Be sure to learn about special rights and options that are available year-around (including at the time the session occurs).

Tuesdays, 9-10:30a I 2/16 - 3/9 | 6-Week Participation

Instructor: Margaret Potter

Writer

 

In this writing class, we’ll focus on retrieving, reliving and relating our life stories. We’ll develop methods to unlock memories — large and small, serious and funny — by reading about various authors, sharing experiences and going over the technical aspects of good writing. With 2020 behind us, your story is not only for you, but for all who may want to read about your life experiences and observations.

 

Important Info: Limited to 12 students.

Tuesdays, 11a-12:30p | 2/16 - 4/6 | 8-Week Lecture

Instructor: Various

 

Gilcrease Museum houses an interdisciplinary collection of more than 350,000 items. The museum represents hundreds of Indigenous cultures across North and South America, with material culture and archaeology ranging from 12,000 BCE to the 21st century. The collection includes more than 350 years of American paintings, sculptures and works on paper, including the largest public holdings of art of the American West. Gilcrease volunteers (a.k.a. Gillies) will regale us with beautiful artworks and interesting treasures from the collections as they share the life and work of Alfredo Zalce, Diego Rivera, Woody Crumbo, Mary Nimmo Moran, Ila McAfee, George Catlin, Willard Stone, Charles Russell, Joseph Henry Sharp and Frederic Remington.

Tuesdays, 1-2:30p | 2/16 - 4/6 | 8-Week Presentation

Instructor: Various

 

As a multi-campus, public, land grant educational system, OSU’s mission is to improve lives through teaching, research and outreach. In this course, we’ll visit with administrators, department heads and faculty to learn the latest developments in each of these areas and how they’re shaping our future. Speakers will include: David Kersnar, head of the Department of Theatre and Dance; Glenn Krutz, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Brad Rowland, manager of operations for ENDEAVOR; Quraysh Ali Lansana, teaching artist for the Center for Poets and Writers at OSU-Tulsa; Pamela Fry, president of OSU-Tulsa; Thad Leffingwell, head of the Department of Psychology; Gina Peek, interim associate dean for Extension, Engagement and Continuing Education for the College of Education and Human Sciences; and Jim Ansley, head of the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management.

Tuesdays, 3-4p | 2/16 - 4/6 | 8-Week Participation

Instructor: Stephen Gorman

Professional Calligrapher, Educator

 

This is an introduction to the correct posture and sitting position, how to hold the pen, different strokes of the pen, position of the paper and the basic alphabet in lowercase and capital letters in Copperplate Calligraphy. You’ll learn a number of essential hand exercises which will develop basic skills and muscle memory. Part of the course also covers different inks, paper and nibs, as well as an introduction to Olde English Script. Stephen W. Gorman, a retired English police officer, is a professional calligrapher who has studied and practiced calligraphy for over 40 years and has taught for more than 20 years.

 

Important Info: Participants are responsible for supplying materials. A list will be provided upon registration. Limited to 12 students.

Wednesdays, 11a-12:30p | 2/17 - 3/10 | 4-Week Participation

Instructor: Tandi Memmott

Artist

 

Working from photo references, you’ll explore painting using acrylic paint on canvas. We’ll cover the basics — composition, value, color mixing and mark making — and experiment with different mediums that change the consistency of the acrylic paint. You’ll also have the option of experimenting with a palette knife, as well. Bring photo references to class or use one provided by the instructor, and let’s paint!

 

Important Info: Participants are responsible for supplying materials. A list will be available upon registration. Limited to 20 students.

Wednesdays, 3-4:30p | 2/17 - 3/10 | 4-Week Discussion

Instructor: Marty Haridas Heitz

Associate Professor, OSU Department of Philosophy

 

Explore the early Greek, Indian and Chinese thinkers of the 8th to 3rd centuries BCE, a time during which the world’s great intellectual, philosophical and religious systems took shape. Known as the “Axial Age,” this lively and creative period transformed life and culture and set us on the path we now know. We’ll study the important thinkers of the Axial Age and ourselves in comparison.

Wednesday, 9-10:30a | 2/17 | Single Class

Instructor: Chad Williams

 

These maps feature rich details of Oklahoma’s past and highlight the development of the state, allowing visitors to explore Oklahoma geography, urban development, transportation, and more.

Wednesday, 1-2:30p | 2/17 | Single Class

Instructor: Rebekah Vieth

 

TBA

Thursdays, 11a-12:30p | 2/18 - 4/8 | 8-Week Presentation

Facilitator: Sue Wimmer

OLLI Volunteer

 

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model investigates a different topic each week, discussing the most critical global issues facing America today. Participants in the course will exchange thoughts on the United States’ historical interactions with the world through a study of policy, economics and ethics. Participants will have the opportunity to explore new perspectives as they expand their understanding of how the United States connects with societies across the globe. Spring 2021 discussion topics will include, global supply chains and national security, Persian Gulf security issues, Brexit and the European Union, struggles over the melting Arctic, China’s role in Africa, the Korean Peninsula, roles of international organizations in a global pandemic and questions regarding the end of globalization.

 

Important Info: Book available for purchase online at www.fpa.org through the Foreign Policy Association.

Thursdays, 3-4:30p | 2/18 - 3/25 | 6-Week Lecture

Instructor: David Prentice

Historian (U.S. foreign relations), Author and Educator

 

The Korean Peninsula lies at the crossroads of empires. By 1950, it found itself along a major Cold War fault line as well. Hostilities there produced global fears of an incipient third world war, ravaged Korean society — some three million Koreans died — and committed America to containing communism in Asia. We will examine the Korean War, its legacies and its impact on America and the modern world.

 

Important Info: All lectures are prerecorded.

Fridays, 11a-2:30p | 2/19 - 4/9 | 8-Week Presentation

Instructors: Various

 

Any author who loves their work will tell you about the pure pleasure, the frustration and the hard work of writing. As Terry Pratchett once said, “Writing is the most fun you can have by yourself.” Let’s find out if our group of Oklahoma authors agrees and hear what they have to say about the craft, the business, the audience and the inspiration. Check our website for a list of guest authors and the dates they’ll be speaking.

Fridays, 1-2:30p | 2/19 - 3/5 | 3-Week Lecture

Instructor: Eugene Bryan

Rodeo Enthusiast

 

Born out of the high plains cattle drives and the Wild West shows, rodeo is most assuredly America’s own sport. We’ll examine the roots of rodeo, taking a look at the components and the various levels and seasons, the riding and roping events and the people and animals that have left their mark over the years. We’ll close by examining rodeo’s classic contests, and we won’t shy away from the animal welfare issue.

Fridays, 3-4:30p | 2/19 - 4/9 | 8-Week Discussion

Instructor: Dr. Vickie Sturgeon

Educator, Broadcasting and Motion Picture History

 

He remains the most nominated director in Academy Award history. Fourteen actors won Oscars under his direction. He directed Audrey Hepburn, Barbra Streisand, Olivia de Havilland and Laurence Olivier to name only a few, and his directorial skill was so varied that no one was ever able to put a stamp on his style. William Wyler was a star-maker, and his films are classic favorites to this day. Watch the movies on your own before each class, and join Vickie Sturgeon for lively discussions. Check our website for a list of films and dates.

 

Important Info: Participants are responsible for watching movies on their own at home prior to class. All movies available through Netflix or Amazon.

Wednesdays, 1-2:30p | 2/24 - 3/31 | 6-Week Book Discussion

Instructor: Britton Gildersleeve

OSU Professor Emeritus, OSU Writing Project

 

Join us in reading mysteries, ranging from the genre’s early years in England to more contemporary series. We’ll discuss the beginnings of the genre and how mysteries have changed, and we’ll look at and discuss books of best-selling mystery writers. If you’ve always fancied yourself an armchair detective, now’s your chance to pit your brain against the best in literature.

Wednesday, 9-10:30a | 2/24 | Single Class

Instructor: Chad Williams

 

These maps feature rich details of Oklahoma’s past and highlight the development of the state, allowing visitors to explore Oklahoma geography, urban development, transportation, and more.

Monday, 9-10:30a | 3/1 | Single Class

Instructor: Doug Aichele

 

TBA

Wednesday, 9-10:30a | 3/3 - 4/7 | 6-Week Lecture

Instructor: Jonita Mullins

Writer, Historian

 

For thirty years before the infamous Trail of Tears in 1839, the Cherokees had slowly been migrating west. These early settlers in Indian Territory came to be called “Old Settlers.” They built a life for themselves in the West, but when the Trail of Tears brought the eastern Cherokees to Indian Territory, the clash between the two groups brought their nation to the brink of their own civil war.

Thursdays, 1-2:30p | 3/4 - 4/8 | 6-Week Lecture

Instructor: James Showalter

Professor Emeritus, Langston University

 

The Great Plains of the U.S. and Canada were not recognized as a region until the 20th century and still defy one definition. As we explore this vast region from pre-history to the present, we’ll cover geology, geography, natural resources, flora and fauna, archaic Native American and historic tribes and waves of non-Native American settlers. We'll include religions, art and societies, as well as economics and environmental issues.

Fridays, 1-2:30p | 3/12 - 3/26 | 3-Week Lecture

Instructor: Christina Rich-Splawn

Graphic Designer, Mythology Enthusiast

 

For almost 98,000 years of Homo sapien history, the most important deity was the Great Goddess. Around 2000 to 1200 BCE, things started to change to the masculine gods. Look at the classical stories for evidence of that ancient goddess belief and the subsequent transformation. We’ll view images and trace mythological stories together with archaeological and ancient literature findings.

Monday, 9-10:30a | 3/15 | Single Class

Instructor: Brooke Kimmel

 

TBA

Tuesdays, 9-10a | 3/16-4/6 | 4-Week Lecture

Instructor: Meredith Garner Woodruff  

CIA Directorate of Operations (retired)

 

The last four years have seen a dramatic shift in U.S. foreign policy. The new administration promises “international re-engagement.” What should we expect as we transition from one worldview to the next? Join us as we examine intended U.S. policy changes in our relationships with major world powers and our involvement in global agreements, and as we consider the possible impact of those changes on our economy, security and international standing.

Wednesdays, 11a-12:30p | 3/17 - 4/7 | 4-Week Participation

Instructor: Tandi Memmott

Artist

 

We’ll experiment with this beautiful medium while learning different techniques such as creating washes, working wet into wet and wet on dry to create desired results. We’ll experiment with masking fluid, salt, plastic wrap, etc., to create different effects. Some basic drawing skills are helpful but not required.

 

Important Info: Participants are responsible for supplying materials. A list will be provided upon registration. Limited to 20 students.

Wednesday, 3-4:30p | 3/17 - 4/7 | 4-Week Lecture

Facilitator: Melissa Hassebroek Hunt

Executive Director, Oklahoma City Foundation for Architecture

 

From its settlement in 1889 to the present day, Oklahoma City’s visionary leaders and architects have constructed remarkable buildings in a variety of styles, leaving us with a truly distinctive and fascinating structural landscape. We’ll discuss the city’s historic architecture, midcentury modern architecture, endangered buildings, tax credit projects and more.

Friday, 9-10:30a | 3/19 | Single Class

Instructor: Michael Lorenz

 

Take your pet questions to the vet!  Dr. Michael Lorenz will give an OLLI presentation addressing whatever want to know about dog and cat care.  Dr. Mike requests that you submit your questions in advance to olli@okstate.edu.  He’ll design his presentation around your interests and concerns. 

Friday, 9-10:30a | 3/26 | Single Class

Instructor: Tyrell Conway

 

TBA

Thursday, 9-10:30a | 4/1 | Single Class

Instructor: Doug Stowell

 

Americans are so crazy about Top 10 lists that we create more of these lists than any other nation in the world.  They’re everywhere you look:  Top 10 Pop Music Hits, Top 10 Largest Frogs, Top 10 Worst Movies.  What’s behind this fascination?  What topics trend and why? 

We’ll look at a number of global Top 10s for the largest countries by area, population, food production, import/exports, happiness, best overall and most peaceful.  Then we’ll compare some U.S. Top 10s such as biggest and smallest states, warmest and coldest states, top imports and exports, best large and small cities, best places to retire, best beaches, best all-time movies and Top 10 best presidents since 1948.

Thursday, 9-10:30a | 4/8 | Single Class

Instructor: Roha Kaipa

 

TBA

Friday, 1-2:30p | 4/9 | Single Class

Instructor: Caroline Cocciardi

 

While living in Rome, author Caroline Cocciardi began studying Leonardo da Vinci.  Her research lead to a da Vinci discovery:  the minute, embroidered knot pattern on Mona Lisa’s dress deviated from the decorative embroidery of the day.  The Mona Lisa knot was a mathematical pattern based on its angular crossing patterns.  Through her research, Caroline discovered the artist dedicated a lifetime to his knot art works.  Join Caroline for the intriguing story behind the artist and his knots.